🧠 When screen time matters most for kids

New longitudinal research found that early screen exposure impacts later development in children. Researchers from Inserm and National University of Singapore tracked 502 kids in Singapore from infancy to middle childhood. Higher screen viewing during infancy and near school entry was linked to poorer academic results and weaker memory at ages 9 and 10.5. The study suggests the age of exposure is key, showing the strongest effects at age 1 and age 6. These findings support that less screen time, especially early on, is better for cognitive growth.

💸 GTA 6 hacker demands big bucks for ad spots

Notorious GTA 6 hacker, CyberLeek, has launched a paid system for advertising on his leaked game videos. He is demanding a hefty 400 XMR, which is about $169,000, just to start a private conversation. This monetization strategy offers clients branded watermarks and custom footage. The process involves sending exact Monero amounts to ensure payment privacy. Ultimately, the system faces scrutiny regarding its technical viability and legal risks.

⚡ Flir drops always-on camera for electrical faults

Flir has launched the Si2a PD, a fixed-mount acoustic imaging camera for continuous partial discharge monitoring. This new solution is designed for utility and industrial environments, monitoring assets like transformers and substations. It can detect faults up to 200 m away, ensuring no critical event goes unnoticed. The device uses AI for detection and integrates with Flir AssetLink™ for better maintenance workflows. This shifts asset management from periodic checks to constant condition monitoring.

🏗️ UP tasks IITs to check mega infrastructure projects

The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a new initiative to audit major public works across the state. This plan assigns premier technical institutions, including IITs, to inspect projects over Rs 100 crore. This decision follows concerns over construction quality, highlighted by a expressway collapse in Unnao just 12 days after opening. IIT Kanpur, IIT-BHU, and IIT Roorkee have been assigned specific divisional responsibilities for these audits. The goal is to boost transparency and ensure all large infrastructure meets safety standards.

📈 6 chemical stocks set to boom with India's export push

India's chemical industry is aiming for a massive $81 billion export target by 2030. This growth is expected to benefit six specific companies across various chemical segments. The national goal requires domestic production to jump from $110 billion in FY23 to $220-280 billion by FY30. Specialty chemicals, which account for $45 billion of the target, will drive this expansion. Increased production and exports are projected to create 700,000 to one million jobs this decade. 🚀

⚖️ IUML pushes for population-based district changes in Kerala

The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) called for reorganizing districts in Kerala based on population for equal resource distribution. IUML General Secretary P.M.A. Salam stated this on Monday, August 24, 2026, amid discussions on a separate Muvattupuzha district. He pointed out disparities, noting Malappuram (over 45 lakh) and Pathanamthitta (around 10 lakh) receive similar facilities. The League clarified this is not specifically about dividing Malappuram or creating a new district. The state government is reportedly examining the demand following CM V.D. Satheesan's statement. 📈

⚖️ Tejpal's rape conviction appeal faces surrender hurdle

Former Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal challenged his 10-year rape conviction before the Supreme Court. The Goa government argued that his appeal depends on surrendering or getting exemption from surrender. The appeal was heard before Justice Alok Aradhe on August 24, 2026. Kapil Sibal countered that the High Court's existing stay made immediate surrender unnecessary. The Supreme Court indicated it would pass an order on this criminal appeal. ⚖️

🚨 CJP flags poor govt school conditions, demands answers

Abhijit Dipke, the CJP convenor, has written to education ministers across the nation regarding the state of public schools. He highlighted serious concerns about infrastructure in various government schools nationwide. The letter detailed that many students lack basic things like safe drinking water and functional toilets, even 80 years after independence. Dipke urged governments to address this issue urgently on a "war footing" for the future of children. He requested detailed information on renovations, teacher vacancies, and funding across all states.

🌿 Sibling duo grows saffron indoors, earning big bucks

Siblings Asthika and Shankar Narula are growing Kashmiri saffron inside a room using aeroponics in Ludhiana. Their family spent time researching and learning traditional farming methods for this venture. In their first season (2024–25), they produced about 1.3 kg of saffron and earned around Rs 17 lakh. Across two seasons, their revenue has now reached nearly Rs 26 lakh through exports to Australia and Canada. They aim to expand their network as climate change threatens traditional saffron farming. 💰

🍬 India sugar stocks are fine, prices expected to drop

ISMA stated that India currently does not face a sugar shortage, easing worries over recent price hikes. Industry body ISMA, alongside NFCSF, confirmed that domestic supply is fundamentally strong across the nation. Sugar prices rose 24% in one month to Rs 56-60 per kg, leading to duty-free imports being allowed on August 20. NFCSF projects 279 lakh tonnes for 2025-26, while anticipating some shipments from Brazil before October 15. The government is unlikely to strictly enforce the October 31 arrival deadline for imports.

🛡️ EVMs are offline, says CEC Gyanesh Kumar

The Chief Electoral Officer, Gyanesh Kumar, has confirmed that Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are not connected to the internet, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi networks. This statement addressed concerns regarding the security and connectivity of the voting machines used in elections. He specified that the EVMs are standalone devices, operating independently of any external network infrastructure. This reassurance aims to calm public anxieties about potential hacking or remote interference during the voting process. Authorities maintain that the system remains secure and isolated from external digital threats. 🛡️